Phang Nga Bay (Ao Phang Nga)

With beaches, caves, lagoons, mangrove forests, and more, Phang Nga Bay is a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. The bay first got global attention when the so-called James Bond Island (Ko Khao Phing Kan) appeared in The Man With the Golden Gun.

Most Phang Nga Bay tours visit Koh Yao Yai, James Bond Island, or both. Some also stop at the Hong Islands (Mu Ko Hong), Panak Island, and Naka Island, and limestone caves. Kayaking tours—which often include snorkeling—are another popular way to explore the bay and its spectacular limestone cliffs. Some full-day tours include transportation from area hotels.

• Boat trips and other tours depart from several locations, including Phang Nga town, Phuket, Krabi, and the Phi Phi Islands.

• Boat, kayaking, and snorkeling tours are best suited for active travelers and families.

• Remember to wear suitable water-friendly footwear and bring plenty of reef-safe sunscreen for boat or kayak excursions.

• Tours often provide a lunchtime meal and refreshments.

Phang Nga Bay is located in the Andaman Sea, between the southern part of the Thai mainland and the island of Phuket. The bay is officially part of Ao Phang Nga National Park. The easiest way to access the bay is to take a tour by speedboat, longtail boat, or kayak. Passenger ferries also cross the bay but don't give you the chance to explore.

Phang Nga Bay gets the best weather through the winter months of November–March. April and May are the hottest months of the year, and temperatures and humidity are generally high. The rainy season—May to October—can get heavy rainfall.

The village of Koh Panyee (Koh Panyi)—floating in the middle of the ocean next to towering limestone rocks—seems like something out of a storybook. The village, which sits entirely on wooden stilts, was built by Indonesian fishermen 200 years ago. A trip to the village offers a fascinating look at an unusual way of life. Most residents are Muslim, so it's respectful to dress modestly if you're planning to visit.

Yes, Phang Nga Bay is worth a visit, thanks to its dramatic limestone formations, crystal-clear waters, and white-sand beaches. The national park is also home to the famous James Bond Island, which shot to fame when it appeared in the movie The Man with the Golden Gun.

Tours of Phang Nga Bay generally last for the entire day, as there's plenty to see and do there. Budget at least 10 hours for a tour of the national park, as that will include boat rides to and from Phuket. If you're exploring on a speedboat, tours might be shorter.

The best time of year to visit Phang Nga Bay is during the dry season on Thailand's Andaman Coast, which lasts from November–April. May–October is the rainy season, which sees increased downpours and rougher sea conditions. However, you'll encounter far fewer crowds at this time if you're willing to brave the weather.

No, there aren't any crocodiles in Phang Nga Bay. You will find marine life, such as fiddler crabs and mudskipper fish, plus macaques and monitor lizards on the islands. If you go snorkeling, you'll also likely see a wealth of colorful fish.

Yes, you can swim in Phang Nga Bay. The turquoise waters of the Andaman Sea are warm and home to a wealth of marine life best seen on a snorkeling tour. The sheltered bays and coves of Phang Nga Bay protect the waters from wind, which creates calm and safe swimming conditions.

For the fewest crowds. visit Phang Nga Bay in the early morning or evening. Most tours spend time from mid-morning until mid-afternoon in the bay. Sunrise or sunset tours let you admire the limestone formations without many other travelers.